Last season, Oklahoma was active in the transfer portal, particularly focusing on bolstering their offense. Out of 12 non-special teams transfer commitments, nine were offensive players, signaling a clear emphasis on improving that side of the ball. Among those additions were two offensive linemen, which was a much-needed reinforcement for the Sooners. Simply put, Oklahoma’s offensive line must improve drastically if the team hopes to make significant strides this season.
The offensive line struggled mightily in 2023, allowing an alarming 50 sacks—ranking last in the SEC by a considerable margin. If Oklahoma is to take the next step and compete for championships again, solidifying their offensive line is a must.
A New Offense and Fresh Hope
This season, Oklahoma is rolling out a brand-new offensive scheme, with a focus on revitalizing the unit and returning to the standard of excellence that the Sooners are known for. Key transfers, including offensive lineman Luke Baklenko, are expected to play pivotal roles in restoring the offense’s potency. Baklenko, a former standout at Stanford, brings much-needed experience and versatility to a unit that desperately needs stability and improvement.
Baklenko, standing at 6’6” and weighing 315 pounds, is a powerful addition who has the ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line. His leadership and skills will be critical in creating a more cohesive unit that can protect the quarterback and open up running lanes.
Looking Ahead
With the new offensive system and a stronger, more experienced line, Oklahoma is hoping to see immediate improvements in both the pass protection and the running game. Coach Brent Venables and his staff are counting on Baklenko and the rest of the line to pave the way for a more dynamic and successful offense.
For the Sooners, 2024 is a year of transformation, and the work done in the trenches will be key to their potential success. If the offensive line can step up and protect the quarterback better than it did last year, Oklahoma’s offense will have the opportunity to return to its championship-caliber form. The road ahead is filled with challenges, but with reinforcements like Baklenko, the Sooners are in a strong position to turn things around and compete for titles once again.
Leave a Reply